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AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 PRO+ Sensor Upgrade
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In this article 13 sections
- What the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade Does
- How It Works: Solar Radiation Error Explained
- Specifications
- Who Needs the PRO+ Upgrade?
- Before and After: What Changes
- How to Install the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade
- Pros and Cons
- How Much More Accurate Does the PRO+ Make Your Station?
- PRO+ Upgrade vs. Davis Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield
- Frequently Made Mistakes with the PRO+ Upgrade
- Troubleshooting the PRO+ Upgrade
- Is the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade Worth Buying?
- Frequently Asked Questions
The AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 PRO+ Weather Sensor Upgrade is an add-on assembly that attaches to the top of an existing AcuRite 5-in-1 outdoor sensor. It adds dual solar panels that power the sensor's internal aspirating fan more consistently throughout the day, reducing the solar radiation error that causes temperature readings to run artificially high on sunny afternoons.
This review covers exactly what the PRO+ upgrade does, how much it improves accuracy, who genuinely needs it, how to install it, and whether it is worth the cost for your situation.
The AcuRite Iris PRO+ upgrade does one thing and does it well: it powers the existing aspirating fan more reliably, reducing solar radiation error on temperature readings. Installation takes under five minutes with no tools. It is worth buying if you are in a hot or sunny climate and your current temperature readings run high compared to official station data on sunny days. It does not improve wind, rainfall, or pressure accuracy.
What the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade Does
The PRO+ upgrade is not a new weather station or a replacement sensor. It is a supplementary assembly that clips onto the top of your existing AcuRite 5-in-1 outdoor sensor and adds two solar panels to the unit. These panels charge a small internal battery that powers the sensor's aspirating fan independently of sunlight conditions.
The standard AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor already includes an aspirating fan and a single solar panel. The problem is that the single panel provides inconsistent power: the fan runs well in bright direct sun but underperforms on partly cloudy days, at low sun angles in early morning and late afternoon, and in winter when sun intensity is reduced. During those periods, the fan slows or stops, and the sensor casing heats up from solar radiation, pushing temperature readings above actual air temperature.
The PRO+ upgrade's dual panels are angled to capture sunlight from a wider range of directions and sun angles, providing more consistent fan power throughout the day and across seasons.
How It Works: Solar Radiation Error Explained
Solar radiation error is the single most common cause of inaccurate temperature readings from consumer weather stations. Even a sensor placed in shade can overheat if the aspiration fan is not running consistently, because the plastic housing still absorbs diffuse radiation and radiates heat inward.
Direct and diffuse solar radiation warms the white plastic housing of the outdoor sensor. Even in shade, reflected radiation from nearby surfaces contributes to casing temperature rise.
Without active airflow, the air inside the sensor housing heats up faster than the ambient air outside. The temperature sensor reads this trapped heated air instead of true ambient air temperature.
When the fan runs, it continuously pulls ambient air from outside the housing over the temperature and humidity sensors, flushing out the heated trapped air and replacing it with fresh outside air.
The PRO+ upgrade's two panels charge an internal battery from a wider range of sun angles. This keeps the fan running during partial cloud cover, early morning, late afternoon, and lower-sun winter days when a single panel would not generate enough power.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible sensors | AcuRite 5-in-1 models including 01500, 01525, 01036 series: check support.acurite.com for full compatibility list |
| Installation | Tool-free snap-on attachment to top of existing 5-in-1 sensor |
| Power source | Dual solar panels with internal rechargeable battery |
| Effect on main sensor batteries | None, fan powered independently by PRO+ solar panels |
| What it improves | Temperature accuracy and humidity accuracy (via consistent aspiration) |
| What it does not improve | Wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, barometric pressure |
| Maintenance | Wipe solar panels with damp cloth periodically to remove dust and pollen |
| Long-term wear point | Aspirating fan motor: moving part subject to eventual wear |
Who Needs the PRO+ Upgrade?
The PRO+ upgrade solves a specific problem. If you do not have that problem, it adds limited value. Here is a straightforward breakdown:
Notice your temperature reads 5°F or more above official station data on sunny afternoons. Live in a hot or high-sun climate (Florida, Texas, Arizona, California). Want to contribute accurate data to Weather Underground. Care about accurate heat index calculations from your station. Already own a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 and want to extend its useful life with better performance.
Already have your sensor in a well-shaded, north-facing position with good airflow and temperatures read accurately. Are primarily concerned with wind or rainfall accuracy: the PRO+ does not affect those. Do not own a compatible AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor: this is not a standalone product. Are considering replacing the whole station rather than upgrading it.
Before and After: What Changes
| Condition | Standard 5-in-1 (without PRO+) | With PRO+ Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| Bright sunny afternoon | Fan runs well, temperature reads close to accurate | Fan runs well, temperature reads close to accurate |
| Partly cloudy day | Fan may slow or stop during cloud cover, temperature creeps up | Fan continues running on internal battery, temperature stays accurate |
| Early morning / late afternoon low sun | Single panel generates little power, fan underperforms | Dual panels capture low-angle sun, fan maintains operation |
| Winter low-sun conditions | Fan frequently insufficient, heating errors more common | Better power generation from dual panels, more consistent aspiration |
| Wind and rain readings | Unaffected by PRO+ upgrade | Unaffected by PRO+ upgrade |
| Main sensor battery drain | 3 AA lithium, typical 12-month life | Unchanged, PRO+ runs on its own power supply |
How to Install the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade
Installation requires no tools and takes under five minutes. The full model-specific instructions are in the included sheet and at support.acurite.com. Here are the general steps:
Remove the 5-in-1 outdoor sensor from its mounting pole or bracket. Work on a clean, flat surface. No need to remove batteries or disconnect anything.
Wipe the top surface of the sensor unit where the PRO+ assembly will attach. Remove any dust, bird droppings, or debris to ensure a secure connection.
Position the PRO+ upgrade assembly over the top of the sensor, aligning the mounting tabs with the corresponding slots. Press firmly until it clicks into place. No screws or adhesive required.
Return the sensor to its mounting location. Ensure it is still level for accurate rain gauge readings. The PRO+ solar panels will begin charging the internal battery on first exposure to sunlight.
The internal battery needs an initial charge before the fan runs consistently. Leave the sensor in sunlight for several hours on the first day. On a clear day you should be able to hear the fan running when you are close to the sensor.
Pros and Cons
- Tool-free installation in under five minutes
- Significantly reduces solar radiation temperature error
- Does not draw from main sensor batteries
- More consistent fan operation in partial cloud and low sun
- Cost-effective improvement without replacing the whole station
- Compatible with multiple AcuRite 5-in-1 model generations
- Does not improve wind, rain, or pressure accuracy
- Fan motor is a long-term wear point
- Adds height and visual bulk to the sensor unit
- Solar panels degrade slightly over years of UV exposure
- Not compatible with all AcuRite sensor models: verify first
- No value if sensor is already well-shaded and reading accurately
How Much More Accurate Does the PRO+ Make Your Station?
The improvement from the PRO+ upgrade is most noticeable on sunny afternoons and partly cloudy days: precisely the conditions when the standard single-panel sensor underperforms. The table below reflects typical real-world observations from weather station owners who have compared before and after readings against nearby official NWS stations.
| Condition | Standard 5-in-1 (error vs. true air temp) | With PRO+ Upgrade | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bright sunny afternoon | +5°F to +10°F possible | +1°F to +3°F typical | Significant |
| Partly cloudy day | +3°F to +7°F (fan intermittent) | +1°F to +2°F (fan more consistent) | Noticeable |
| Overcast day | +0°F to +2°F (minimal solar input) | +0°F to +1°F | Marginal |
| Early morning / late afternoon | +2°F to +5°F (low sun angle, fan weak) | +0°F to +2°F (dual panels capture low angle) | Noticeable |
| Night | Minimal error | Minimal error | None needed |
| Winter (low sun intensity) | +2°F to +6°F (single panel insufficient) | +0°F to +2°F (dual panels compensate) | Noticeable |
For most buyers in sunny climates, the improvement is genuinely noticeable. A station that consistently reads 8°F above official data on summer afternoons will typically read within 2°F to 3°F of official data after the PRO+ upgrade is installed: assuming the rest of the sensor placement is correct. For a broader look at consumer station accuracy, see our guide to how accurate home weather stations really are.
PRO+ Upgrade vs. Davis Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield
Buyers who research aspirated temperature sensors often encounter the Davis Instruments fan-aspirated radiation shield as the professional benchmark. Here is how the two compare for home weather station use.
| Feature | AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade | Davis Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible stations | AcuRite 5-in-1 sensors only | Davis Vantage Pro2, Vantage Vue, and select third-party sensors |
| Power source | Dual solar panels with internal battery | External power adapter (AC power required) or solar option |
| Installation | Tool-free snap-on, under 5 minutes | Requires mounting bracket, cable run to power source |
| Fan speed control | Fixed, solar-powered | Fixed speed, continuous when powered |
| Accuracy improvement | Good, reduces error from 5-10°F to 1-3°F in typical conditions | Excellent, NIST-traceable accuracy, near-true ambient in all conditions |
| Price range | Low (upgrade accessory price) | Higher (standalone accessory, requires Davis station) |
| Best for | Existing AcuRite owners wanting a significant accuracy boost affordably | Serious weather observers needing the highest possible temperature accuracy |
The Davis fan-aspirated shield is the more accurate solution, but it requires a Davis station (see our Davis Vantage Pro2 review), a power connection, and a more involved installation. For AcuRite owners who want a meaningful improvement without changing stations or running cables, the PRO+ upgrade achieves most of the practical benefit at a fraction of the complexity and cost.
Frequently Made Mistakes with the PRO+ Upgrade
Most issues with the PRO+ upgrade stem from mismatched expectations or avoidable setup errors. These are the most common mistakes new buyers make.
| Mistake | Why it happens | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Buying without checking compatibility | The PRO+ fits many but not all AcuRite 5-in-1 models. Older sensor generations may not be supported. | Look up your sensor's model number at support.acurite.com before purchasing. The model number is on a label on the bottom of the outdoor sensor unit. |
| Expecting better wind accuracy | The upgrade is described as improving sensor performance, which buyers assume means all sensors. | The PRO+ only improves temperature and humidity accuracy via better aspiration. Wind speed, direction, and rainfall accuracy are not affected. |
| Expecting better rain accuracy | Same misunderstanding: "upgrade" implies across-the-board improvement. | Rain accuracy is determined by tipping bucket cleanliness and sensor levelling, not aspiration. Clean the funnel and check the level separately. |
| No improvement noticed on day one | The internal battery needs an initial charge before the fan runs consistently. | Allow a full sunny day after installation for the battery to reach its initial charge. Do not judge the upgrade's effectiveness on the first day of installation. |
| Installing on a poorly sited sensor | Buyers expect the PRO+ to fix a sensor in direct sun with no shade. | The PRO+ reduces solar radiation error: it does not eliminate it. A sensor in full afternoon sun will still read high even with the upgrade. Correct siting is still required. See our station installation guide. |
| Not cleaning solar panels | Dust, pollen, and bird droppings reduce panel efficiency over time without visible degradation. | Wipe the dual solar panels with a damp cloth every few months, especially in spring (pollen season) and after dusty weather events. |
Troubleshooting the PRO+ Upgrade
The official support documentation for the PRO+ upgrade is at support.acurite.com. Here are the most common issues reported after installation:
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fan not running after installation | Internal battery not yet charged | Place the sensor in direct sunlight for several hours to allow the initial charge. Fan should begin running within a full sunny day of exposure. |
| Fan runs intermittently | Solar panels dirty or partially shaded | Wipe panels with a damp cloth. Check that no new obstructions (tree growth, new structures) are casting shade on the sensor during parts of the day. |
| Temperature still reading high after upgrade | Sensor placement issue rather than aspiration issue | Relocate sensor to a shadier position with better airflow. The PRO+ helps but cannot fully compensate for a sensor in direct afternoon sun with no shade. |
| PRO+ assembly feels loose | Mounting tabs not fully engaged | Remove and reseat the assembly. Press firmly at each tab location until you hear or feel a click. Check support.acurite.com for model-specific seating instructions. |
| Fan stops working after months of use | Fan motor wear or debris in fan blades | Inspect fan opening for debris and clean with compressed air. If motor has failed, contact AcuRite support for replacement options at support.acurite.com. |
Is the AcuRite Iris PRO+ Upgrade Worth Buying?
Yes, for the right situation. The PRO+ upgrade is a well-designed, low-friction solution to a genuine problem with single-panel aspirated sensors. If your AcuRite 5-in-1 station is reading temperatures several degrees above official station data on sunny afternoons, this upgrade will improve that. Installation is as simple as any add-on gets. It does not require software changes, recalibration, or any modification to the existing sensor.
The upgrade is not worth buying if your temperature readings are already accurate, if your primary concern is wind or rain data, or if you are planning to replace the station entirely. In those cases the money is better spent on a new station: the AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 remains competitive at its price, and the Ambient Weather WS-2902C is the step up if you want UV index, solar radiation, and broader third-party platform support.
For existing AcuRite 5-in-1 owners in hot or sunny climates who want to get more accurate temperature data without buying new hardware, the PRO+ upgrade is a cost-effective and hassle-free improvement.
Check AcuRite PRO+ Upgrade Price on Amazon As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.Frequently Asked Questions
What does the AcuRite Iris PRO+ upgrade do?
The PRO+ upgrade adds dual solar panels to an existing AcuRite 5-in-1 outdoor sensor, powering the internal aspirating fan more consistently. The fan draws ambient air over the temperature and humidity sensors, reducing solar radiation error and producing more accurate readings throughout the day.
Is the AcuRite PRO+ upgrade worth it?
Yes, if your temperature readings run noticeably high compared to official station data on sunny days. It is not worth buying if your sensor is already correctly shaded and reading accurately, or if your primary concern is wind or rainfall accuracy, which the PRO+ does not affect.
What AcuRite sensors is the PRO+ compatible with?
The PRO+ upgrade is compatible with a range of AcuRite 5-in-1 outdoor sensor models including the 01500, 01525, and 01036 series. Verify your specific model number at support.acurite.com or on the product listing before purchasing.
Does the PRO+ upgrade affect battery life?
No. The PRO+ upgrade's aspirating fan is powered entirely by its own dual solar panels and internal rechargeable battery. It does not draw power from the main 5-in-1 sensor's AA batteries, so the sensor's battery life is unaffected.
How do I install the AcuRite Iris PRO+ upgrade?
Installation is tool-free. Remove the outdoor sensor from its mount, clean the top surface, align the PRO+ assembly over the sensor top, and press until the tabs click into place. Reinstall the sensor outdoors and allow a full sunny day for the internal battery to reach its initial charge. Total installation time is under five minutes.
Why does an aspirating fan improve temperature accuracy?
Without active airflow, solar radiation heats the sensor's plastic casing, which warms the air inside the housing above true ambient temperature. An aspirating fan continuously flushes that heated air out and replaces it with fresh outside air, keeping the temperature sensor reading the actual air temperature rather than the temperature of the heated housing.
Sources
Specifications verified against AcuRite official documentation. Solar radiation error principles from the World Meteorological Organisation Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation. No manufacturer compensation was received. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Lena Thornton
Weather Station Analyst and CWOP Contributor. Lena has researched, reviewed and analysed weather stations and instruments for over a decade. She contributes observation data to the Citizen Weather Observer Program (CWOP) and writes exclusively for the-weather.com.
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